A Hemorrhoid is a condition where the anal canal has dilated veins. In this ano-rectal disease, there is swelling and distention of the veins causing pain and sometimes bleeding. Not only that hemorrhoids are painful and bleeding, sometimes they are also itchy and cause an uncomfortable sensation to the anus. According to Corman (1998), by the age of 50, about 50% of people have hemorrhoids to some extent. In the United States, at least 10 million people have hemorrhoids, and up to a third of these people seek treatment (F.A. Davis, 2007).
Hemorrhoids are categorized as either internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are produced by dilation and enlargement of the superior plexus, which cannot be seen because they are above the anal sphincter. External hemorrhoids on the other hand are produced by dilation and enlargement of the inferior plexus, which are below the anal sphincter and are apparent upon inspection.
As this condition is common, let us discuss the best home remedies to get rid of hemorrhoids. You will be surprised as to the many items you already have at home that can help you with Hemorrhoids. Most of these home remedies are even just found in your kitchen! With these easy accessible remedies though, do bear in mind that these remedies are not a substitute for any medical attention you might need. Seeking professional medical help should always be part of your plan in the treatment regimen.
Here is a list of items/procedures you can find or do at home that makes the best home remedies to get rid of hemorrhoids:
1.Ice – Conservative treatments for hemorrhoids include application of cold packs to the anal region. These ice packs reduce swelling and pain. This method is a quick yet effective remedy for hemorrhoids. If you do not have an icepack, you may make one. Ice cubes or crushed ice can be put in a plastic bag. Do not it directly to the affected area, but instead, wrap it with a thin piece of cloth. Directly putting ice into the area may burn your skin. Applying ice pack can be done within 15-20 minutes and then rest for about 10-15 minutes. Repeat this procedure for 2-3 hours, rest for another 2-3 hours and then repeat the cycle.
2.Sitz baths for 15 minutes twice a day – For those of you who do not know this procedure, a Sitz Bath is when a person sits in a tub of water that is up to the hips. The itching, pain and discomforts in lower parts of the body are usually relieved with this procedure. It is a very soothing and comforting remedy for hemorrhoid that that can be done at the comforts of your own home – specifically in your bath tub. What you will need is water and a water heater. Run water in your tub, and regulate the temperature to make it as hot as tolerable. Step into the tub and comfortably sit on it for 15-20 minutes.
3.Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar can help with both external and internal hemorrhoids. What it does is that it will reduce the swelling and irritation of the affected area. When purchasing apple cider vinegar, make sure that what you get is the unpasteurized vinegar (unfiltered) because this is more effective and this is a lot more potent.
For internal hemorrhoids, take a teaspoon of vinegar with a glass of water twice daily. It is important to have water when drinking acidic compounds like vinegar as it will help you balance the acid content in your stomach. A little honey can help lessen the taste of vinegar and you can also have this added on your apple cider vinegar intake.
Application of apple cider vinegar directly to the affected area using a small a cotton ball will help the external hemorrhoids. In doing this procedure, be sure to have the area gently cleaned before doing the procedure. And, only a small amount of vinegar is needed on a cotton ball, gently pressing it against the inflamed part. There will be a normal stinging sensation felt initially. This is a temporary sensation but afterwards you will feel relieved of the itching and irritation. This procedure can be repeated as many times as tolerable daily until the swelling decreases.
4.Essential oils for remedy of hemorrhoids – Essential oils used in aromatherapy provide a holistic approach in treating symptoms of hemorrhoids efficiently and effectively. With this remedy, therapeutic properties from the essential oils enter your bloodstream, which in turn also facilitates in an internal treatment of hemorrhoid thereby addressing its root cause. Essential oils are regarded as one of the best home remedies to get rid of hemorrhoids. Blends can be created of many different essential oils to make a mixture to be used for treatment.
In calming the itch and relieving the pain, you can use a blend of Geranium, Lavender, Bergamot, Helichrysum, Frankincense and using a carrier oil of Fractionated Coconut Oil. This blend shall be put in a dark place in an amber-colored glass bottle to prolong its potency. In applying it to the affected area, placed 2-3 drops on a pre-moistened wipe (organic is preferable) and gently wipe the anal area clean. This can be done daily or as necessary.
Chamomile essential oil has been known for good for soothing irritated skin and reducing pain. This essential oil can be applied directly to the affected area.
Evening primrose oil may also help in reducing inflammation, itching and pain that are related to hemorrhoids. But be mindful that in using this oil there might be possible side effects such as headaches and gastrointestinal upset. Hence, it will be safe to consult to a professional before using.
Sesame seed oil is also an essential oil that is used in treating hemorrhoids. This essential oil has therapeutic properties such as antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral activities. It is a known anti-inflammatory agent and has an antioxidant property attributed to the Vitamin E found in it that will help nourish your skin.
Aside from the ones mentioned above, here is a list of essential oils that can be used for Hemorrhoids: Clary sage oil, Coconut oil, Dill oil, Cypress oil, Smoke tree oil, Tea tree oil, Milfoil oil, Bigroot oil and Peppermint oil.
5.Rutin – Rutin can also be used to treat hemorrhoids. It is one of the phenolic compounds found in citrus fruits. Rutin is a bioflavonoid found mainly in buckwheat that can be taken as a dietary supplement for the treatment of hemorrhoids, varicose veins and other conditions. Intake of Rutin for at least twice a day will help in treating inflammation of the affected area.
All these mentioned regimens can be done at home and are all considered as conservative treatment for hemorrhoids. If conservative treatment does not alleviate symptoms in 3 to 5 days, more invasive management may be needed and consultation to a medical professional will be necessary.
Always remember that healthy habits can prevent occurrence of hemorrhoids. Consider the importance of regular bowel habits and the need for increasing dietary fiber and fluid through a balanced diet high in whole grains, raw vegetables, and fresh fruit. Moderate exercise such as walking can also help regulate bowel function. It will be great to have home remedies for conditions like these but prevention is always better than cure.
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